qq The Kansas City Chiefs have requested permission to interview Raiders RBs coach Deland McCullough for their running backs coach vacancy. Notably, McCullough is no stranger to Kansas City, having previously served on the Chiefs’ staff from 2018 to 2020

The Kansas City Chiefs’ offseason plans are beginning to take shape, and their latest move suggests the organization may be looking to blend continuity with fresh energy.

According to reports, the Chiefs have requested permission to interview Raiders running backs coach Deland McCullough for their open running backs coach position. The request immediately caught attention across the league—not just because of McCullough’s reputation as a respected position coach, but because of his history in Kansas City. From 2018 to 2020, McCullough was part of the Chiefs’ staff, making this potential hire feel less like a gamble and more like a possible reunion.

That familiarity is already fueling speculation inside league circles.

A Coach Who Knows the Building

McCullough’s previous stint in Kansas City coincided with a transformative era for the franchise. During those years, the Chiefs were building an offensive identity centered on speed, versatility, and adaptability—principles that remain core to Andy Reid’s philosophy today.

Coaches who understand Reid’s system, expectations, and culture often have an advantage, and McCullough’s past experience could allow for a smoother transition than an outside hire. He knows the standard. He knows the pace. And perhaps most importantly, he understands how the Chiefs develop players within a championship-driven environment.

That familiarity could matter greatly for a backfield that continues to evolve.

Why the Timing Makes Sense

The Chiefs’ running back room has become increasingly important to the balance of the offense. While Kansas City remains pass-heavy by design, recent seasons have shown a greater emphasis on physical runners who can protect the quarterback, finish drives, and punish defenses late in games.

Developing that kind of reliability requires precise coaching—especially in areas like vision, pass protection, ball security, and situational awareness. McCullough has built a reputation around those fundamentals, earning praise for his ability to connect with players and tailor coaching to individual strengths.

That approach appears to resonate with the locker room.

Isiah Pacheco Weighs In

Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco was asked about the possibility of a coaching reunion, and while careful not to speculate on personnel decisions, his response was telling.

Pacheco emphasized that he values coaches who know how to “bring the best out of running backs,” adding that continuity and the right teaching can make a significant difference in performance and confidence.

For a player like Pacheco—whose game thrives on intensity, trust, and clear coaching—those words suggest that the identity of the running backs coach isn’t just a formality. It’s foundational.

What McCullough’s Return Could Mean

If the Chiefs move forward with McCullough, his impact could extend beyond individual drills or weekly game plans. A familiar voice in the room could help stabilize roles, accelerate development for younger backs, and reinforce the physical edge Kansas City has leaned into during recent postseason runs.

It would also signal a broader organizational philosophy: when something works, bring it back.

Reunions like this aren’t about nostalgia—they’re about efficiency, trust, and alignment. And in a league where small margins decide championships, those details matter.

Still Early, But Worth Watching

At this stage, the request to interview is just that—a step in a broader coaching search. No decision has been made, and the Chiefs are expected to evaluate multiple candidates before filling the role.

Still, the interest in McCullough is notable.

It reflects a front office that understands its window is very much open—and that even subtle coaching upgrades can have outsized effects on a championship roster.

Whether this reunion becomes reality remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Chiefs aren’t just looking for a coach.

They’re looking for the right fit—and Deland McCullough is firmly on their radar.